Information processing apparatus and information processing method

ABSTRACT

A recording unit for recording image information and/or audio information onto a replaceable tape-shaped recording medium, filing units for filing the image information and/or the audio information which have been written onto the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium by the recording unit, and a file information writing/reading unit for writing/reading, in a non-contact state, file information of file into a random accessible memory unit provided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium are provided to thereby realize an information processing apparatus.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus andan information processing method which perform, as file, management ofimage information and/or audio information recorded on a tape-shapedrecording medium.

BACKGROUND ART

Realization of network for conducting transmission/reception betweencomputers which handle various digital data is advancing.

Meanwhile, a large number of VTRs (Video Tape Recorders), which load avideo cassette provided with a tape-shaped magnetic recording medium(hereinafter referred to as a magnetic tape as occasion may demand) torecord image information and/or audio information onto the tape-shapedmagnetic recording medium, and/or reproduce image information and/oraudio information which have been recorded, are used in various fieldsbecause long time recording can be realized by using the tape-shapedmagnetic recording medium, and the video cassette is removal medium andcan be carried with ease.

Accordingly, transfer of image information and/or audio information toand from external unit is realized by making use of the above-describednetwork so that VTRs can freely conduct transmission/reception ofinformation within the magnetic tape. From this fact, their use purposesare greatly improved. For this reason, there has been a great demand forrealization of network of VTR.

In response thereto, there is devised a technique of conductingtransmission/reception of image information and/or audio informationfrom VTR to external unit on the network, e.g., computer by using widelyused protocol such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol), etc.

Since it is necessary for the purpose of transferring data to externalunit on the network to constitute, as file, data to be transferred toconduct file management by file system, file system has been introducedinto VTRs in which concept of file did not exist in the prior artbecause research of image information or audio information could besufficiently made by visual sense or auditory sense of user.

In general, in the file system, data recorded on recording medium isconstituted as file to collectively perform management of processingrelating to file operation such as read processing, write processing,delete processing and/or updating processing for file on the basis ofinformation such as file name, file size, file preparation date and fileupdating date, etc.

Moreover, in the file system in which management of files recorded onrecording medium is conducted on the file basis as described above,management is ordinarily performed in the state where data recordingarea of the recording medium is divided into a record entry (RE) areawhere files are recorded and a Free Space List (FSL) area where no fileis recorded.

In the file system, in the case where new file is prepared, whether ornot space (empty) area exists in the Free Space List (FSL) area is firstretrieved. In the file system, in the case where space (empty) areaexists in the Free Space List (FSL) area, there is conducted such aprocessing as to register that area into the Record Entry (RE) area toprepare a new file, and to delete file from the Free Space List (FSL)area.

However, in the file system of information processing apparatus usingtape medium as recording medium like VTR, since system data necessaryfor file management is written at the leading position of the tapemedium, there is required an operation to necessarily rewind tape mediumup to the leading position to read system data into memory, at the timeof starting of the information processing apparatus, or immediatelyafter removal medium is loaded into: the information processingapparatus in the case where tape medium is removal medium. For thisreason, there is a problem that such operation is very troublesome.

Further, in the case, e.g., where the content of file is rewritten,there is required an operation to rewind the tape medium until theleading position to update system data, or to temporarily store systemdata to be updated into a non-volatile memory, etc. in the case wherethe tape medium is removal medium to rewind the tape at the time oftaking out of the tape medium to write the data at a predeterminedposition. For this reason, there is a problem that such operation isvery troublesome.

Further, since VTR can sequentially provide access to the magnetic tapein accordance with command input by user, in the case where file systemas described above is provided, there is a possibility that readprocessing and/or write processing of data may be performed bysequential access, i.e., through path except for the file system so thatdata is newly written into the data area of the file recorded on themagnetic tape. As a result, there is a problem that the file data wouldbe broken.

Furthermore, the data constituting a file of which the file systemperforms management have correlation to each other, and are notindependent in ordinary state. Such data do not become significantindependent data until they are caused to be unit of file. However,since image file consisting of image data has the configuration in whichplural GOPs (Group of Pictures) which are information completed bythemselves are collected, significant independent data would existwithin the file even if data is not caused to be of file unit.

For example, in the case where image data are handled in broadcastingservices, etc., image file in which data serving as material have beenrecorded for a long time period is first generated. Then, only imagesnecessary for broadcasting are extracted from the material to furtheradd other image data to the extracted image data to thereby prepareimage file for broadcasting. That is, independent arbitrary image datais extracted from a predetermined image file, etc. thus to prepare newimage file.

Meanwhile, in the case where a desired information is retrieved frominformation recorded on a magnetic tape, e.g., video information oraudio information, Time Code (TC) information indicating recording timeof the information recorded at a predetermined track provided in thelongitudinal direction on the magnetic tape at the time of recording theinformation or Control signal (CTL) used for tape drive servo control isused.

For example, at VTRs, when user retrieves desired information frominformation recorded on the magnetic tape provided within a videocassette, the magnetic tape was caused to be run up to the positionwhere the information has been recorded by making use of Time Code (TC)recorded along with the information to conduct retrieval.

However, Time Code (TC) to be recorded onto the magnetic tape is notinformation indicating absolute position, on the magnetic tape, of videoinformation and/or audio information which have been recorded on themagnetic tape, but is information indicating relative position withrecording start point of video information or audio information being asa reference such that starting point of Time Code (TC) can be changed byuser.

Accordingly, since it frequently takes place that the same Time Codes(TCs) exist on the magnetic tape, there was a problem that it is verydifficult to retrieve information that user desires from informationwhich have been recorded on the magnetic tape by using only Time code(TC) information.

For this reason, user has ensured retrieval of a desired informationbased on Time Code (TC) information as described above by actuallyreproducing the magnetic tape to confirm the information retrieval byvisual sense or auditory sense. However, information retrieval dependentupon visual sense or auditory sense of user is reliable, but results inthe problem that such retrieval is so troublesome that it takes muchtime.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide an informationprocessing apparatus which facilitates access to a file system forconducting management of files recorded on a tape-shaped recordingmedium, an information processing apparatus which performs management offiles to be recorded onto a tape-shaped recording medium by using filesystem, and which can record information onto the tape-shaped recordingmedium without using the file system, an information processingapparatus capable of freely preparing file irrespective of the filesystem in the case where data consisting of independent data, e.g., GOP,etc. like image information are recorded on a tape-shaped recordingmedium, and an information processing apparatus which can securelyprovide access to information which have been recorded on a tape-shapedrecording medium without relying upon visual sense or auditory sense ofuser.

An information processing apparatus according to the present inventioncomprises: recording means for recording image information and/or audioinformation onto a replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; filingmeans for filing the image information and/or the audio informationwhich have been written on the replaceable tape-shaped recording mediumby the recording means; and file information writing/reading means forwriting and reading, in a non-contact state, file information of thefile into random accessible memory means provided in a manner associatedwith the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium.

This information processing apparatus can easily acquire fileinformation of files recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium fromthe random accessible memory means by the file informationwriting/reading means.

An information processing method according to the present inventionincludes: recording image information and/or audio information onto areplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; filing the image informationand/or the audio information which have been written on the replaceabletape-shaped recording medium; writing, in a non-contact state, fileinformation of the file into random accessible memory means provided ina manner associated with the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium;and reading, in a non-contact state, file information of the file whichhas been written into the memory means.

This information processing method can easily acquire, from the randomaccessible memory means, file information of files which have beenrecorded on the tape-shaped recording medium.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the essential partconfiguration of VTR shown as an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a view for explaining the essential part configuration ofmagnetic tape drive unit in the VTR.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining file transmitting operation in theVTR.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining file receiving operation in theVTR.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation inwriting information onto magnetic tape without use of file system.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation torecord information onto recording medium to prepare file by using filesystem.

FIG. 7A is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where one file isrecorded on magnetic tape.

FIG. 7B is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where information isnewly recorded on the magnetic tape shown in FIG. 7A to file it.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation toprepare file from information which has been recorded on recordingmedium without use of file system.

FIG. 9A is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where information whichhas already been recorded on magnetic tape is filed.

FIG. 9B is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where the informationof file shown in FIG. 9A are caused to overlap to prepare new file.

FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of a file to be prepared in theVTR.

FIG. 11 is a view showing constants and variables used in calculatingwinding radius information in the VTR.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation whenaccess to a predetermined file on magnetic tape is provided.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments of an information processing apparatus and an informationprocessing method according to the present invention will now bedescribed in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

The present invention is applied to a Video Tape Recorder. (hereinafterreferred to as VTR) shown as a block diagram in FIG. 1. The VTR shown asan embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus adapted forloading a video cassette provided with a tape-shaped magnetic recordingmedium (hereinafter referred to as magnetic tape) into a video cassetteloading unit (not shown), and capable of conducting recording of video(image) signals and/or audio signals onto the magnetic tape, orreproducing the signals from the magnetic tape thereof by filemanagement based on the file system, or conducting such operationwithout intervention of the file system. A video signal to be recordedonto the magnetic tape is inputted from external unit (not shown)through a predetermined network, and a video signal reproduced from themagnetic tape is outputted to external unit (not shown) through apredetermined network.

The VTR comprises a network interface (referred to as network I/F asoccasion may demand) 1, a buffer memory 2, a VTR system unit 3, acontrol panel 4, a file system control unit 5, an encoder/decoder(hereinafter referred to as ENC/DEC) 6, a memory 7 for file system, anda CPU 8.

The network interface 1 is an interface for connecting the VTR andexternal unit through network. Video signals and/or audio signals areinputted from external unit to the VTR through the network interface 1.

The network to which the VTR is connected through the network interface1 is, for example, LAN (Local Area Network), etc., wherein Ethernet(Registered Trademark) is used as protocol which covers a portion ofdata link layer of OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) reference modeland physical layer, TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)/IP (InternetProtocol) is used as protocol which covers network layer and transportlayer, and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used as protocol which coverssession layer, presentation layer and application layer, thereby makingit possible to transmit and/or receive video information and/or audioinformation.

The network interface 1 is, for example., NIC (Network Interface Card)which is a dedicated board for network connection, and is provided witha connector to which LAN cable for high speed data transmission in whichdata transfer rate is 10 M bps, 100 Mbps and, further, 1 Gbps can beconnected.

Video signals and/or audio signals inputted from the network interface 1are sent to the buffer memory 2 of the succeeding stage, at which theyare temporarily buffered. The signals thus obtained are further sent tothe VTR system unit 3.

Moreover, video signals and/or audio signals reproduced at the VTRsystem unit 3 at the time of reproduction in a manner described laterare outputted to the buffer memory 2, at which they are temporarilybuffered. The signals thus obtained are sent to external unit throughthe network interface 1 of the succeeding stage.

The network interface 1 sends, to the file system control unit 5,command, such as FTP command, etc. for the file system control unit 5which is transmitted from external unit through the network.

The VTR system unit 3 serves to load a video cassette 10 provided withmagnetic tape into video cassette loading unit (not shown) to executerecording onto the magnetic tape of video signals and/or audio signalssent from the above-described buffer memory 2, and reproduction of videosignals and/or audio signals recorded on the magnetic tape.

The VTR system unit 3 comprises a magnetic tape drive unit for drivingmagnetic tape of the loaded video cassette 10, and a signal processingsection for executing recording signal processing for performingconversion into a predetermined signal form optimum for recording videosignals and/or audio signals inputted from the buffer memory 2 onto themagnetic tape, and reproduction signal processing for reproducing videosignals and/or audio signals recorded on the magnetic tape to convertthem into signals of a predetermined signal form.

When the video cassette 10 is loaded into loading unit (not shown), forexample, the magnetic tape drive unit draws out the magnetic tape 11, asshown in FIG. 2, from the casing (hereinafter the casing of the videocassette 10 is referred to as cassette half) of the video cassette 10 bytape loading mechanism. The magnetic tape 11 which has been drawn out iswound at a predetermined winding angle and at a predetermined tensiononto a rotation drum 14 including recording magnetic heads andreproduction magnetic heads which are not shown via tape guides 13 froma supply reel (hereinafter referred to as S reel) 12, and is passedthrough a path put between a capstan 15 for running the magnetic tape 11at a predetermined speed and a pinch roller 16. Thus, the magnetic tape11 arrives at a winding reel (hereinafter referred to as T reel) 17.

At the S reel 12, the capstan 15 and the T reel 17, there arerespectively provided S reel motor, capstan motor and T reel motor (notshown) which are dedicated power units for rotationally driving them.

At the S reel motor, the capstan motor and the T reel motor, there arerespectively provided FGs (Frequency Generators) which are nor shown.Thus, rotation information of respective motors are detected. Thedetected rotation information of the motors are used in calculatingwinding radius information which is one of file information.

The S reel 12, the rotation drum 14, the capstan 15 and the T reel 17 ofthe magnetic tape drive unit drive the magnetic tape 11 as the result ofthe fact that motors (not shown) which respectively drive them arecontrolled by the CPU 8.

The signal processing section implements, e.g., compression-encodingbased on MPEG (Moving Picture Expert Group) to a video signal inputtedfrom the buffer memory 2, at the time of recording, to implement errorcorrection encoding by the Reed-Solomon product code to thecompression-encoded video signal and audio signal inputted from thebuffer memory 2, to add error correction code to further addsynchronization data and ID data thereafter to form channel-coded serialdata to record this data at a predetermined track on the magnetic tape11 by recording magnetic heads, record video signal at VIDEO track andaudio signal at AUDIO track. The signal processing section performscompression-encoding by MPEG to record compression-encoded video signalonto the magnetic tape 11 every 1 GOP.

A control signal used for tape drive servo control is recorded at acontrol track provided in the longitudinal direction on the magnetictape 11, and Time Code (TC) which is position information of videosignal recorded on the magnetic tape 11 is recorded at Time Code (TC)track.

Moreover, at the time of reproduction, the signal processing sectionimplements processing opposite to that at the time of recording to videosignal and/or audio signal which have been read out by the reproductionmagnetic heads to output error-corrected audio signal to the buffermemory 2, and to expansion-decode similarly error-corrected video signalto output it to the buffer memory 2.

At the VTR system unit 3, in accordance with command input from controlpanel 4 which will be described later, or in accordance with the controlbased on file system of the CPU 8 which has received command from filesystem control unit 5 which will be described later, the magnetic tapedrive unit drives magnetic tape at a predetermined speed, and the signalprocessing section records video signal/audio signal onto the magnetictape 11, or reproduces video signal/audio signal from the magnetic tape11.

The control panel 4 is an operation unit which inputs command forcontrolling a predetermined operation of the VTR system unit 3 that userdesignates. Command inputted from the control panel 4 is sent to the VTRsystem unit 3. User inputs, e.g., recording command for instructingrecording of video signal/audio signal from the control panel 4 onto themagnetic tape 11, reproduction command for instructing reproduction ofvideo signal/audio signal recorded on the magnetic tape 11, fast-forwardcommand for conducting fast-forward of the magnetic tape 11 and/orrewinding command for rewinding the magnetic tape 11, etc. It ispossible to record a predetermined video signal or audio signal onto themagnetic tape 11 without undergoing management by file system which willbe described later by command inputted from the control panel 4.

Subsequently, prior to explanation of respective functions of the filesystem control unit 5, the ENC/DEC 6, the file system memory 7 and theCPU 8 which take file management of the file system of the VTR, outlineof the file management by the file system of the VTR shown as theembodiment of the present invention will be explained.

The file system is a system for filing video signal/audio signalrecorded on the magnetic tape 11 to perform file management; on thebasis of file information. The file information used for file managementof the file system are stored and held at memory tags 25, which will bedescribed later, attached to video cassette 10 with respect to eachvideo cassette 10 where the files are recorded.

When video cassette 10 is loaded into the video cassette loading unit(not shown) of the VTR, file information stored and held at the memorytag 25 is transmitted from the memory tag 25 to the ENC/DEC 6 in anon-contact state, and the transmitted file information is stored intothe file system memory 7. The file information which has been stored bythis file system memory 7 is caused to undergo management by the CPU 8in accordance with command of the file system control unit 5. Thus,e.g., preparation of new file and/or updating of file, etc. areexecuted. When file information of the file system memory 7 is changed,added (supplemented) or deleted, file information is transmitted in turnfrom the ENC/DEC 6 to the memory tag 25 in a manner opposite to theabove. Thus, file information of the memory tag 25 is also updated asoccasion demands.

The file system control unit 5 receives command for file control, e.g,FTP command relating to file transfer, etc., which is transmitted fromthe external unit through the network interface 1 to control the CPU 8in accordance with the command to execute processing such asupdating/deletion of the content of file system stored in the filesystem memory 7 and/or addition (supplement) of new file, etc.

Here, the memory tag 25 for storing and holding file information whichis attached to the video cassette 10 will be explained.

The memory tag 25 includes therewithin an erasable IC memory 22 in whichrecord holding operation is unnecessary such as EEPROM (ElectricallyErasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an encoder/decoder (hereinafterreferred to as ENC/DEC) 23 for encoding a signal received at coilantenna 24 which will be described later to write the encoded signalinto the IC memory 22 to read out information stored in the IC memory 22and decoding the information into a predetermined signal to send it tothe coil antenna 24 which will be described later, and a coil antenna 24for electromagnetically conducting supply of power andtransmission/reception of signals, etc. and serves to performtransmission/reception of file information to and from the ENC/DEC 6 ofthe VTR in a non-contact state. The memory tag 25 is included within alabel 21 attached to the cassette half of the video cassette 10,wherein, e.g., title, etc. of the content recorded on the magnetic tape11 is written onto the label 21 by hand-writing or print, etc.

File information is written into the IC memory 22 of the memory tag 25attached to the cassette half of this video cassette 10 at the time ofrecording onto the magnetic tape 11 of video signal. Moreover, when thevideo cassette is loaded into video cassette loading unit (not shown),file information stored in the IC memory 22 is read out, and isdeveloped in the file system memory 7 as file system.

Practical file information to be stored into the IC memory 22 of thememory tag 25 is shown below. The file information of each file storedon the magnetic tape 11 is file name information which is name (title)of the file, file start Time Code (TC) information which is relativeposition information on the magnetic tape 11 of the file, file start Tside winding radius information which is absolute position informationon the magnetic tape 11 of the file, file end Time Code (TC) informationwhich is relative position information on the magnetic tape 11 of thefile, file end T side winding radius information which is absoluteposition information on the magnetic tape 11 of the file, file sizeinformation indicating data size of the file, file access rightinformation indicating executable operation divisions with respect tothe file, e.g., possession, read, write and/or execution, etc., systeminformation indicating image system of video signal which is the file,e.g., NTSC (National Television System Committee), or PAL (PhaseAlternation by Line), etc, stream information indicating bit rate ofimage compressed by MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) system, filepreparation date information indicating date where the file has beenprepared, file preparation time information indicating time when thefile has been prepared, file updating date information indicating datewhen the file has been updated, and file updating time informationindicating time when the file has been updated, etc.

The encoder/decoder 6 includes coil antenna (not shown), and serves toconduct electromagnetic coupling between the coil antenna and the coilantenna 24 within the memory tag 25 of the non-contact type to therebysupply power to the memory tag 25, and to conduct transmission/receptionof file information to and from the memory tag 25.

The ENC/DEC 6 encodes file information which has been transmitted fromthe coil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25 to send the encoded fileinformation to the file system memory 7 of the succeeding stage.Moreover, the ENC/DEC 6 reads out corresponding file information in thecase where the content of the file system is updated, or newlysupplemented (added) by control of file system control unit 5 which willbe described later to decode the file information into a predeterminedsignal to transmit file information from coil antenna (not shown) to thecoil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25.

The file system memory 7 is, e.g., a writable/readable RAM (RandomAccess Memory), etc., and stores, as file system, the above-describedfile information which has been transmitted from the memory tag 25 tothe ENC/DEC 6.

The CPU 8 controls respective units of the VTR in a generalized manner.Moreover, the CPU 8 reads, by command from the file system control unit5, file information within the file system stored in the file systemmemory 7 to control the operation of the VTR system unit 3, or update,delete or newly add, etc. the content of the file system stored in thefile system memory 7 on the basis of the file information which has beenread.

Subsequently, explanation will be given in connection with the operationat the time of file transmission and the operation at the time of filereception of the VTR shown as the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the operation at the time of file transmission of the VTR will beexplained by using the flowchart shown in FIG. 3.

At step S1, the CPU 8 retrieves, from the file system memory 7, filename information transmitted from external unit (not shown) to the filesystem control unit 5 through, e.g., the network interface 1.

At step S2, the CPU 8 retrieves the file system memory 7 to acquire filestart Time Code (TC) of file corresponding to the file name informationretrieved at the step S1.

At step S3, the CPU 8 controls the magnetic tape drive unit of the VTRsystem unit 3 to Cue Up to the preroll point slightly before the filestart Time Code (TC) acquired at the step S2 which exists on themagnetic tape 11.

At step S4, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to conduct acontrol so as to reproduce the magnetic tape 11 to reproduce file dataof the file to start transmitting operation. When the file data is beingtransmitted, Time Code (TC) is monitored at all times.

At step S5, the CPU 8 judges whether or not the Time Code (TC) beingmonitored is file end Time Code (TC). In the case where that Time Code(TC) is the file end Time Code (TC), the processing is completed. In thecase where that Time Code (TC) is not the file end Time Code, the CPU 8controls the VTR system unit 3 to reproduce the magnetic tape 11 tocontinuously execute transmission of file data of the file.

Then, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown in FIG. 4in connection with the operation at the time of reception of file of theVTR.

At step S11, the CPU 8 receives file name of file transmitted from theexternal unit through the network interface 1 and the file systemcontrol unit 5 to hold the received file name.

At step S12, the CPU 8 receives file data through the interface 1 tosend instruction of recording (REC) or edit (ASSEMBLE, etc.) to the VTRsystem unit 3 in accordance with the fact that file data which has beenstored in the buffer memory 2 becomes equal to a predetermined quantityto start recording onto the magnetic tape 11 of the received file data.The CPU 8 holds recording start Time Code (TC) simultaneously withrecording start onto the magnetic tape 11 to always count Time Code (TC)during recording of file data onto the magnetic tape 11 to control theVTR system unit 3 so as to write Time Code (TC) at Time Code (TC) trackof the magnetic tape 11.

At step S13, the CPU 8 judges whether or not transmitting operation offile data from external unit is completed. In the case wheretransmitting operation has been completed, the processing proceeds tostep S14. In the case where transmitting operation is not completed, theCPU 8 continues recording operation of the VTR system unit 3 as it is.

At the step S14, the CPU 8 acquires end Time Code (TC) in accordancewith the fact that transmitting operation of file data from externalunit has been completed to control the VTR system unit 3 to stoprecording operation.

At step S15, the CPU 8 prepares a new file from file name information,start Time Code (TC), end Time Code (TC), recording size and otherinformation which have been held to update file information of the filesystem memory 7.

At step S16, the CPU 8 controls the encoder/decoder 6 to decode the fileinformation which has been updated at the step S15 to transmit thedecoded file information to the coil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25 asa predetermined signal. In accordance with this transmitting operation,the encoder/decoder 23 of the memory tag 25 encodes the predeterminedsignal received at the coil antenna 24 to write the encoded signal intothe IC memory 22 as file information.

In this way, the VTR of the present invention allows the memory tag 25attached to the video cassette 10 to store file information of file toread file information into the file system memory 7 as a file system inaccordance with the fact that the video cassette 10 has been loaded toperform file management based on the file system by the file systemcontrol unit 5, thereby making it possible to easily provide access tothe file system also in the file processing, e.g., transmission of fileand/or reception of file.

Then, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown in FIG. 5in connection with the operation in directly controlling the VTR systemunit 3 without using the file system to record predetermined informationonto the magnetic tape 11 in the VTR shown as the embodiment of thepresent invention.

First, at step S21, by user, recording (REC) command instructingrecording of predetermined video signal/audio signal from the controlpanel 4 onto the magnetic tape 11 is inputted. The inputted recording(REC) command is sent to the CPU 8 through the VTR system unit 3.

At step S22, the CPU 8 acquires file start Time Code (TC) informationand file end Time Code (TC) information of all files from the filesystem stored in the file system memory 7.

At step S23, the CPU 8 judges from the file start Time Code (TC)information and the file end Time Code (TC) information of all fileswhich have been acquired at the step S22 whether or not the position onthe magnetic tape 11 where recording (REC) command has been inputted isfile area. In the case where that position is the file area, the CPU 8stops recording operation of the VTR system unit 3. In the case wherethat position is not the file area, processing proceeds to step S24.

At the step S24, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to startrecording of video signal and/or audio signal onto the magnetic tape 11.

At step S25, the CPU 8 extracts Time Code (TC) recorded at Time Code(TC) track of the magnetic tape for a time period during which recordingis executed at the VTR system unit 3.

At step S26, the CPU 8 compares the Time Code (TC) extracted at the stepS25 and the file start Time Code (TC) information and the file end TimeCode (TC) information of all files which have been acquired at the stepS22 to judge whether or not the position on the magnetic tape 11 beingreproduced is the file area. In the case where that position is the filearea, the CPU 8 stops recording operation of the VTR system unit 3. Inthe case where that position is not the file area, processing proceedsto step S27.

At the step S27, the CPU 8 judges whether or not STOP command which iscommand for stopping recording operation onto the magnetic tape 11 isinputted by user from the control panel 4 during recording operationonto the magnetic tape 11 by the VTR system unit 3. The CPU 8 conducts acontrol so that in the case where STOP command is inputted, recordingoperation of the VTR system unit 3 is stopped, and in the case whereSTOP command is not inputted, recording operation by the VTR system unit3 is continued.

In a manner as stated above, the VTR shown as the embodiment of thepresent invention directly controls the VTR system unit 3 withoutintervention of the file system conventionally executed at the VTRalthough management of video signal and/or audio signal recorded ontothe magnetic tape 11 is performed by the file system to have ability toexecute recording operation implemented onto the magnetic tape 11.

Then, explanation will be given in connection with the operation infreely preparing file irrespective of the file system in the case whereindependent data such as image data, etc. are recorded on the magnetictape 11 that the video cassette 10 has in the VTR shown as theembodiment of the present invention.

First, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown in FIG. 6in connection with an operation to record, on the basis of the filesystem, predetermined information onto the magnetic tape 11 that thevideo cassette 10 has to prepare file in the VTR shown as the embodimentof the present invention.

At step S31, the file system control unit 5 receives, through thenetwork interface 1, STORE command which is a command for recording apredetermined file transferred from external unit onto the magnetic tape11, or APPEND command which is a command for adding (supplementing) andwriting a predetermined file into a space (empty) area of the magnetictape 11.

At step S32, the file system control unit 5 controls the CPU 8 toacquire file information stored in the file system memory 7. Forexample, when file X is assumed to be recorded in advance on themagnetic tape 11 as shown in FIG. 7A, the CPU 8 acquires fileinformation of the file X.

At step S33, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 on the basis ofthe file information acquired at the step S32 to Cue Up to the positionexcept for the file area of the magnetic tape 11. For example, the CPU 8Cues Up in the area except for the file area of the file X shown in FIG.7A.

At step S34, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to start recordingof a predetermined data transferred from external unit through thenetwork interface 1 from the position where Cue Up operation has beenconducted.

At step S35, the CPU 8 extracts Time Code (TC) on the magnetic tape 11.

At step S36, the CPU 8 compares the Time Code extracted at the step S35and file information acquired at the step S32 to judge whether or notthe position on the magnetic tape 11 where data is recorded at presentis file area. In the case where that position is the file area,processing proceeds to step S37. In the case where that position is notthe file area, processing proceeds to step S38.

At the step S37, the CPU 8 stops recording of data because the currentposition on the magnetic tape 11 is the file area, and transmits, to theexternal unit, a message which notifies that transfer of data has becomeerror.

In the case where transfer of data is completed so that recording ontothe magnetic tape 11 has been completed at the step S38, processing bythe CPU 8 proceeds to step S39. In the case where transfer of data isnot completed, the CPU 8 continues transfer of data while extracting theTime Code (TC).

At the step S39, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to preparefile of data recorded on the magnetic tape 11. For example, when file Yis assumed to be prepared as shown in FIG. 7B, the file Y will bewritten into a data recording area except for the area of file X whichhas been recorded in advance on the magnetic tape 11.

File information of the prepared file is written into the file systemmemory 7 by the CPU 8 in accordance with control of the file systemcontrol unit 5.

As stated above, the file system is used so that new file is prepared inan area except for the file area of the file X

Subsequently, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown inFIG. 8 in connection with the operation to freely file, irrespective ofthe file system, a predetermined information recorded in advance on themagnetic tape 11 that the video cassette 10 has to prepare file in theVTR shown as the embodiment of the present invention.

A video signal filed as file A as shown in FIG. 9A, for example, isassumed to be recorded in advance on the magnetic tape 11. In addition,a video signal is assumed to be recorded on the magnetic tape 11 withoutusing the file system by instruction from the control panel 4.

First, at step S41, the file system control unit 5 receives file nameinformation given to file to be prepared, which is transmitted fromexternal unit (not shown) through network interface, to send thereceived file name information to the CPU 8. For example, the CPU 8acquires file name information of file B.

At step S42, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 to Cue Up to the position serving as file start point.For example, when file start point of the file B is assumed to be theposition indicated as “BS” within file A as shown in FIG. 9B, Cue Upoperation to the position of “BS” is conducted. When Cue Up operationhas been conducted, processing proceeds to step S43.

At the step S43, the CPU 8 acquires Time Code (TC) of Cued Up file andwinding radius information of the T reel 17 to allow them to berespectively file start Time Code (TC) information and file start T sidewinding radius information.

At step S44, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 to Cue Up to the position caused to serve as file endpoint. For example, when the file end point of the file B is assumed tobe the position indicated as “BE” as shown in FIG. 9B, Cue Up operationto the position of “BE” is conducted. When Cue Up operation isconducted, processing proceeds to step S45.

At the step S45, the CPU 8 acquires Time Code (TC) of the Cued Up fileand winding radius information of the T reel 17 to allow them to berespectively file end Time Code (TC) information and file end T sidewinding radius information.

At step S46, the CPU 8 acquires current date and current time.

At step S47, the CPU 8 allows data recorded from the position of “BS” ofthe magnetic tape 11 to the position of “BE” thereof to be file B.

The file B prepared in this way is such that video signal recorded fromthe position of “BS” to the position of “AE” on the magnetic tape 11 iscaused to overlap with the file A as shown in FIG. 9B. As a result, fileis prepared irrespective of the file system.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, long time recorded video file 30can be properly used as short time video file 31 or still image file 32.

Subsequently, explanation will be given in connection with the operationin providing access to desired information (desired file) filed andrecorded by the file system onto the magnetic tape 11 that the videocassette 10 has in the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention.

In the conventional VTR, access to desired information was executed byusing Time Code (TC) recorded along with a predetermined information onthe magnetic tape 11 and visual sense or auditory sense of user.

In the VTR shown as the embodiment of the present invention, access to adesired information (desired file) filed by the file system is providedby using winding radius information of S reel 12 and T reel 17 of themagnetic tape 11 in addition to conventionally used Time Code (TC).

In view of the above, how to determine winding radius information of theS reel 12 and the T reel 17 which are necessary at the time of fileaccess operation at VTR shown as the embodiment of the present inventionwill be first explained.

The winding radius information is one of file information to be storedinto the file system memory 7 as the file system similarly to the TimeCode (TC) information, and while the Time Code (TC) information isinformation indicating relative position of file recorded on themagnetic tape 11, the winding radius information is informationindicating absolute position of file recorded on the magnetic tape 11.The winding radius information is generated by the CPU 8 at the time ofpreparation of file, and is stored into the file system memory 7 as fileinformation.

In order to run the magnetic tape 11 at low speed, e.g., to performreproduction operation, it is necessary to stably run the magnetic tape11 at a predetermined speed. For this reason, the magnetic tape 11 iscaused to be in pressure contact with the capstan 15 which runs themagnetic tape 11 by the pinch roller 16 to run the magnetic tape 11 insuch a manner that the capstan 15, the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 arecaused to be interlocked with each other. On the contrary, in the casewhere the magnetic tape 11 is run at a high speed, the pinch roller 16is away from the capstan 15 thereafter to run the magnetic tape 11 asthe result of the fact that the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 areinterlocked with each other. When the magnetic tape 11 is run in thisway, radii of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 (hereinafter referred toas winding radius) will change momentarily.

Meanwhile, since there is no possibility that the magnetic tape 11 maybe wound onto the capstan 15, movement quantity of the magnetic tape canbe easily determined from the number of rotations and the shaft diameterof the capstan 15.

Accordingly, in the state where the pinch roller 16 is caused to be inpressure contact with the capstan 15 (hereinafter referred to as ON modeas occasion may demand), i.e., when the magnetic tape 11 is run at lowspeed, movement quantity of the tape is determined from the number ofrotations of the capstan 15 and the shaft diameter of the capstan 15 todivide the movement quantity thus determined by the products ofrespective numbers of rotations of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 and2π, thereby making it possible to determine winding radii of the S reeland the T reel.

Moreover, in the state where the pinch roller 16 is away from thecapstan 15 (hereinafter referred to as OFF mode as occasion may demand),i.e., when the magnetic tape 11 is run at a high speed, it is possibleto determine winding radii of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 by amethod indicated below.

When the winding radius of the S reel 12 is assumed to be Rso and thewinding radius of the T reel 17 is assumed to be Rto, Total Volume Tv ofthe magnetic tape 11 is winding radius of circle having area obtained byadding area of circle where the winding radius is Rso and area of circlewhere the winding radius is Rto. Accordingly, the relationship asindicated by the equation (1) is obtained.π·Tv ² =π·Rso ² +π·Rto ²  (1)

Moreover, the equation (1)′ is obtained from the equation (1).Tv ² =Rso ² +Rto ²  (1)′

By taking into consideration the fact that projection area of themagnetic tape 11 is invariable, the equation (1) holds also inconnection with the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and the windingradius Rt of the T reel 17 at an arbitrary time. When winding radius Rsand winding radius Rt are substituted into the equation (1)′, theequation (1)″ is obtained.Tv ² =Rs ² +Rt ²  (1)″

Here, when ratio between the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and thewinding radius Rt of the T reel 17 is expressed as Ratio=Rt/Rs, theequation (2) and the equation (3) are obtained.

$\begin{matrix}{{Rs} = \frac{Tv}{\sqrt{1 + {Ratio}^{2}}}} & (2)\end{matrix}$Rt=Rs·Ratio  (3)

From the above fact, the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and thewinding radius Rt of the T reel can be determined by the Total Volume Tvof the magnetic tape 11 and the Ratio.

FIG. 11 is a view in which constants and variables which are necessaryin calculating the winding radii Rs, Rt are indicated.

The Total Volume Tv of the magnetic tape 11 and the Ratio can bedetermined by executing the following steps of (A) to (C).

(A) First, when the video cassette 10 is loaded into the loading unit(not shown) of the VTR, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to runthe magnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine the Total Volume Tvoserving as reference by the following equations at the time point whenthe number of counts SRCFG of FG (Frequency Generator) provided at thecapstan motor is expressed as |SRCFG|>SRCFG1.

${Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}$${Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}$${Tvo} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}$

(B) Further, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine the Total Volume SRtmpby the following equations at the time point when SRCFG becomes|SRCFG|>SRCFG2.

$\begin{matrix}{{{Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}}{{SRtmp} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}}{{{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {{Swind}\; 1}} \right)}{1000}} < {SRtmp} < {{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {{Swind}\; 1}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (4)\end{matrix}$

In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmp satisfies the rangeindicated by the equation (4), processing proceeds to the subsequentstep. In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmp does notsatisfy that range, measured values of SRCFG, SRSFG and SRTFG which havebeen counted by respective FGs of the capstan 15, the S reel 12 and theT reel 17 are reset to repeat the step of (A) for a second time.

(C) Since the calculated SRtmp has satisfied the equation (4), Tvo iscaused to be equal to SRtmp to further run the magnetic tape 11 by thecapstan 15 to determine Total Volume SRtmp by the following equations atthe time point when SRCFG becomes |SRCFG|>SRCGF3.

$\begin{matrix}{{{Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}}{{SRtmp} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}}{{{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {{Swind}\; 2}} \right)}{1000}} < {SRtmp} < {{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {{Swind}\; 2}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (5)\end{matrix}$

In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmp does not satisfy therange indicated by the equation (5), measured values of SRCFG, SRSFG,SRTFG which have been counted at respective FGs of the capstan 15, the Sreel 12 and the T reel 17 are reset to repeat the step of (A) for asecond time. In the case where the calculated Total Volume satisfies theequation (5), the Total Volume Tv and Ratio are determined as follows.Tv=SRtmp

${Ratio} = \frac{1000 \times {{SRTFG}}}{{SRSFG}}$

In a manner as stated above, when the video cassette 10 is loaded intoloading unit (not shown) of the VTR, Total Volume Tv and Ratio which arenecessary for calculating the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and thewinding radius Rt of the T reel 17 are determined, and are held at theCPU 8.

<Calculation of the Winding Radii Rs, Rt in the OFF Mode>

The CPU 8 resets measured values of SRSFG and SRTFG which have beencounted at respective FGs of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 to run themagnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine Ratio tmp by thefollowing equations at the time point when Rwind<|SRSFG| andRwind<|SRTFG| hold.

$\begin{matrix}{{{tmp} = \frac{1000 \times {{SRTFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{{Ratio} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {Rwind}} \right)}{1000}} < {tmp} < {{Ratio} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {Rwind}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (6)\end{matrix}$

In the case where the calculated tmp does not satisfy the equation (6),the Ratio is as indicated below.

$\begin{matrix}{{Ratio} = {{Ratio} + {\frac{{Ratio} \times {Rwind}}{1000}\left( {{{when}\mspace{14mu}{tmp}} > {Ratio}} \right)}}} \\{{Ratio} = {{Ratio} - {\frac{{Ratio} \times {Rwind}}{1000}\left( {{{when}\mspace{14mu}{tmp}} < {Ratio}} \right)}}}\end{matrix}$

Conversely, in the case where the calculated tmp satisfies the equation(6), Ratio becomes equal to tmp, and winding radius Rs of the S reel 12and winding radius Rt of the T reel 17 are determined in a manner asindicated below.tmp=√{square root over (1000²+Ratio)}

${tmp} = \sqrt{1000^{2} + {Ratio}}$${Rs} = \frac{{Tv} \times 1000}{tmp}$${Rt} = \frac{{Rs} \times {Ratio}}{1000}$

In general, when the magnetic tape is wound in roll form, air layertakes place between the magnetic tape and the magnetic tape, or the tapeend is apt to be twisted. For this reason, the larger the winding radiusof the tape becomes, the more error will be included in the windingradius of the tape. Moreover, at the magnetic tape 11 of the videocassette 10, there are many cases where file is prepared mainly near thebeginning of the tape. In this case, since the winding quantity of themagnetic tape 11 of the S reel 12 is large, there is high possibilitythat winding radius information of the S reel 12 may include error.Accordingly, at the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention, winding radius information of the T reel 17 side is assumedto be used as winding radius information.

On the premise that the winding radius information is obtained in amanner as stated above, explanation will be given by using the flowchartshown in FIG. 12 in connection with access operation to file recorded onthe magnetic tape 11 of the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention.

First, at step S51, user designates, e.g., from the control panel 4,file name of file that he desires to access and time code of a desiredposition of the file. The CPU 8 reads out, by the designated file name,file start T side winding radius information of designated file storedin the file system memory 7.

At step S52, the CPU 8 runs, on the basis of file start T side windingradius information which has been read out at the step S51, the magnetictape 11 to the point of −α which is the portion in the vicinity of filestart T side winding radius, e.g., −1 mm point to control the VTR systemunit 3 so that Cue Up operation is conducted.

At step S53, the CPU 8 judges whether or not Cue Up operation has beencompleted. In the case where the Cue Up operation has been completed,processing proceeds to step S54. In the case where the Cue Up operationis not yet completed, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 so thatthe Cue Up operation is continued as it is.

At step S54, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to reproduce themagnetic tape 11 to retrieve Time Code (TC) designated by user.

At step S55, the CPU 8 judges whether or not Time Code (TC) extracted asthe result of the fact that the magnetic tape 11 is reproduced is adesired Time Code (TC) designated by user. In the case where that timeCode (TC) is the desired Time Code (TC), processing is completed. In thecase where that time code (TC) is not the desired Time Code (TC), theCPU 8 continues processing which retrieves the Time Code.

In a manner as stated above, the VTR serves to store, into the filesystem memory 7, file start T side winding radius information as one offile information to use Time Code (TC) information and file start T sidewinding radius information at the time of access to the file, therebymaking it possible to securely execute access to a desired file on themagnetic tape 11.

It is to be noted that the above-described method of calculating thewinding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and the winding radius Rt of the Treel 17 is one example, and various techniques can be applied withoutlimiting to such calculation method.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As is clear from the above explanation, the information processingapparatus of the present invention is adapted to record imageinformation and/or audio information onto replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium by recording means to file, by filing means, the imageinformation and/or the audio information which have been written ontothe replaceable tape-shaped recording medium by the recording means towrite and read, in a non-contact state, file information of file intorandom accessible memory means provided in a manner associated with thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium by file informationwriting/reading means, thereby making it possible to facilitate accessto file system in performing management of image information and/oraudio information which have been recorded on the tape-shaped recordingmedium in the state where those information are filed.

As is clear from the above explanation, the information processingapparatus of the present invention can perform management of file to berecorded onto the tape-shaped recording medium by the file system, andcan also record predetermined image information and/or audio informationonto the tape-shaped recording medium without using the file system in amanner free from paying attention to file recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium.

As is clear from the above explanation, at the information processingapparatus of the present invention, in the case where new file isprepared on tape-shaped recording medium where files have been alreadyrecorded, file preparation means files predetermined image informationand/or audio information as a new file in accordance with filepreparation instruction generated at instruction generating meansirrespective of file area where files have been prepared, thereby makingit possible to freely prepare file from predetermined image informationand/or audio information which have been recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium.

Moreover, since the information processing apparatus of the presentinvention can prepare new file where image information and/or audioinformation of file which have been already recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium overlapping with each other, it becomes possible toeffectively utilize recording capacity of the tape-shaped recordingmedium.

As is clear from the above explanation, the information processingapparatus of the present invention uses winding radius information ofwound tape-shaped recording medium in addition to Time Code informationconventionally used, thereby making it possible to securely provideaccess to image information and/or audio information within desired filerecorded on the tape-shaped recording medium without depending uponvisual sense or auditory sense of user.

Further, the information processing apparatus of the present inventionfirst provides, by using winding radius information, access to filerecording start point of file which has been recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium in providing access to image information and/or audioinformation within desired file. For this reason, as compared to thecase where the tape-shaped recording medium is reproduced to provideaccess using only Time Code information, access time to imageinformation and/or audio information within desired file can be greatlyreduced.

As is clear from the above explanation, the information processingmethod of the present invention includes: recording image informationand/or audio information onto replaceable tape-shaped recording medium;filing the image information and/or the audio information which havebeen written onto the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; writing,in a non-contact state, file information of file into random accessiblememory means provided in a manner associated with the replaceabletape-shaped recording medium; and reading, in a non-contact state, thefile information which has been written into the memory means, therebymaking it possible to facilitate access to file system in performingmanagement of image information and/or audio information which have beenrecorded on the tape-shaped recording medium in the state where they arefiled.

1. An information processing apparatus comprising: recording means forrecording image information and/or audio information onto a replaceabletape-shaped recording medium wound on a pair of reels; filing means forfiling the image information and/or the audio information which havebeen written on the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium by therecording means; file information writing/reading means for writing andreading, in a non-contact state, file information of the file intorandom accessible memory provided in a manner associated with thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; and winding radius calculatingmeans for calculating winding radius of each reel with the replaceabletape-shaped recording medium when a file is recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium, wherein the radius calculating means calculates thewinding radius based on a radius of a capstan, a first counter value ofthe capstan, and a second counter value of each of the reels, whereinthe calculated winding radius is associated with the file as the fileinformation, and wherein the winding radius calculating means furthercalculates a total volume of the pair of reels wound with thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium in order to calculate thewinding radius.
 2. The information processing apparatus as set forth inclaim 1, further comprising: reproducing means for reproducing imageinformation and/or audio information which have been recorded on thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; file system memory means forstoring, as file system, file information which has been read out by thefile information writing/reading means; and management means forperforming management of files which have been recorded on thetape-shaped recording medium in accordance with the file system.
 3. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising: transmitting/receiving means for receiving image informationand/or audio information transmitted from an external location, and fortransmitting, to the external location, the image information and/or theaudio information which have been reproduced by the reproducing means.4. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 2, furthercomprising: control means for conducting a control to record imageinformation and/or audio information onto the tape-shaped recordingmedium by the recording means in accordance with access through the filesystem, or access without intervention of the file system, wherein thecontrol means controls, in recording image information and/or audioinformation onto the tape-shaped recording medium without interventionof the file system, the recording means to limit recording of the imageinformation and/or the audio information on the basis of the filesystem.
 5. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 4,further comprising: time code information acquisition means foracquiring time code information of all files, wherein the control meanscontrols the recording means, on the basis of time code informationwhich has been acquired by the time code information acquisition means,to limit recording onto the recording medium of the image informationand/or the audio information.
 6. The information processing apparatus asset forth in claim 5, further comprising: time code informationextraction means for continuously extracting time code information for atime period during which the image information and/or the audioinformation are recorded by the recording means, wherein the controlmeans compares time code information extracted by the time codeinformation extraction means and time code information acquired by thetime code information acquisition means to control the recording meansto limit recording onto the recording medium of the image informationand/or the audio information.
 7. The information processing apparatus asset forth in claim 6, wherein the control means controls the recordingmeans to stop recording on the recording medium of the image informationand/or the audio information when time code information extracted by thetime code extraction means and time code information acquired by thetime code information acquisition means overlap with each other.
 8. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 4, wherein thecontrol means controls the recording means to record, as file, the imageinformation and/or the audio information when there exists a recordingarea except for file area of the recording medium from time codeinformation indicating position on the recording medium of file recordedonto the recording medium in accordance with access through the filesystem.
 9. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 4,wherein the control means controls the recording means to record theimage information and/or the audio information when there exists anunrecorded area in a recording area on the recording medium from timecode information which is position information on the recording medium.10. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1,further comprising: instruction generating means for generating a filepreparation instruction which instructs file preparation to the filingmeans which files the image information and/or the audio informationwhich are recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium, wherein thefiling means files, as a new file, the image information and/or theaudio information in accordance with the file preparation instructiongenerated by the instruction generating means, irrespective of a filearea where the file is prepared, when the new file is prepared on therecording medium where the file has been already recorded.
 11. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein thefiling means prepares the new file within a new file area by overwritingan area that has been previously written.
 12. The information processingapparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein the file is an image fileconsisting of image information of GOP (Group of Picture) unit.
 13. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising: driving means for driving the tape-shaped recording medium;memory means for storing time code information indicating positionwithin the file of information recorded as the file on the tape-shapedrecording medium and the winding radius information calculated by thewinding radius information calculating means in such a manner associatedwith the file; and access control means for controlling the drivingmeans on the basis of the time code information and the winding radiusinformation which have been read from the memory means to perform accesscontrol with respect to the information.
 14. The information processingapparatus as set forth in claim 13, further comprising: extraction meansfor extracting the time code information recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium, wherein the access control means controls the drivingmeans until the time code corresponding to the information to beaccessed is extracted by the extraction means to perform drivingoperation.
 15. An information processing method including: recordingimage information and/or audio information onto a replaceabletape-shaped recording medium wound on a pair of reels; filing the imageinformation and/or the audio information which have been written ontothe replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; writing, in a non-contactstate, file information of the file into random accessible memoryprovided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium; reading, in a non-contact state, file information ofthe file and ratio information which has been written into the memory;and calculating winding radius of each reel with the replaceabletape-shaped recording medium when a file is recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium, wherein the radius calculating step calculates thewinding radius based on a radius of a capstan, a first counter value ofthe capstan, and a second counter value of each of the reels, whereinthe calculated winding radius is associated with the file as the fileinformation, and wherein the winding radius calculating step furthercalculates a total volume of the pair of reels wound with thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium in order to calculate thewinding radius.